AB ad man Mike Roarty dies

ST. LOUIS (KSDK) - St. Louis, and all of the advertising world, lost a legend this past weekend. And to those who knew him best say they lost a loyal friend.

If you don't know the name Mike Roarty, chances are you know his work. Over his more than four decades at Anheuser-Busch, Roarty rose to prominence with some unforgettable tv ads like the "This Bud's for you," campaign and many more including "Spud Mackenzie" and the "Bud Bowl."

And he spent a lot of time at his friend Charlie Gitto's restaurant, socializing with big name stars like Stan Musial and Jack Buck.

"You mention his name and it was like opening a door," said Gitto. "And he was just a wonderful person. Everybody loved him from the little guy all the way up."

Roarty passed away Saturday at the age of 84. Friends say he had been in poor health for some time.

They also say of all days to honor his memory, none could be more fitting than St. Patrick's Day.

Roarty was a fixture for years in the St. Louis parade and even served as Grand Marshall of the St. Patrick's Day parade in Dublin, Ireland.

Visitation for Roarty will be Wednesday with funeral services Thursday at Bopp Chapel in Kirkwood.